Splitsville

Splitsville’s witty dialogue plunges the viewer into the heart of a modern screwball comedy within the first fifteen minutes. Carey (Kyle Marvin) and Ashley (Adria Arjona) have been married for a grand total of 14 months when, in the middle of what was meant to be a romantic road trip, Ashley announces she wants a divorce. The announcement comes conveniently after the couple witnesses a car crash, an explosion, and an unexpected death.

Inspired by the finality of death, Ashley decides she wants more from life. Carey, spooked by the apparent finality of marriage, literally runs away from the situation. At the end of his mental health sprint, a chaotic and confused Carey stumbles out of a bush and into the backyard of his friends Julie (Dakota Johnson) and Paul (Michael Angelo Covino), much to the surprise of the serene and charismatic Julie.

Seeking support from the couple, Carey opens up over a glass of wine about his own relationship, prompting Julie and Paul to reveal that the secret to their marital bliss is an open relationship. The truth behind their “dream couple” dynamic begins to unravel as Julie engages in non-monogamy with Carey—much to Paul’s dismay. The situation escalates into violent absurdity before eventually calming down, though the dynamics between the two couples are left hopelessly tangled.

Eelia Leikas